Harbin Leads China’s New Winter Tourism Boom: Northeast and Southern Regions Draw Millions with Ice Sculptures, Ski Resorts, and Snow Activities

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As winter tightens its grip across northern China, enthusiasm for ice and snow tourism has grown significantly. Tourists are flocking to the country’s coldest destinations, inspired by a mix of seasonal activities, cultural festivities, and world-class winter attractions. Data from Chinese online travel agency Ctrip indicates a sharp rise in searches for ice- and snow-related experiences, with Harbin, Heilongjiang province, leading the list as the top destination for winter tours.

Harbin: China’s Premier Winter Wonderland

Known as the nation’s “ice box,” Harbin has cemented its reputation as a global winter hotspot. On November 27, the city began preparing for the 26th annual Harbin Ice-Snow World. This sprawling park, set to expand from 810,000 square meters to an impressive 1 million square meters, will open in mid-December, offering an enhanced experience for visitors.

Luo Xin, deputy general manager of Harbin Ice-Snow World Co., highlighted the park’s integration of elements from the upcoming 9th Asian Winter Games, scheduled to take place in Harbin in February. This year’s park design promises to deliver a more dazzling display, combining ice, snow, sound, and lights to captivate visitors. Alongside its iconic sculptures, the park will host diverse events, including ice harvesting festivals, outdoor performances, fantasy shows, and competitive ice carving.

Another major event, the Harbin Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo, has commenced its preparations with artificial snowmaking. Spread over 1.5 million square meters, the expo will feature more than 260 snow sculptures designed for artistic and competitive purposes. Jiang Fei, deputy general manager of Harbin Sun Island Property Management Co., stated that new activities, such as parent-child snow carving, aim to enhance family experiences.

A Strategic Push for the Snow and Ice Economy

China’s National Development and Reform Commission has announced a plan to boost the snow and ice economy in Northeast China. This strategy focuses on promoting high-quality development, fostering regional cooperation, and attracting tourists from other parts of the country. The commission plans to draw visitors from key economic hubs, including the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei area, the Yangtze River Delta, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

To further attract international travelers, Harbin’s visa-free transit policy will expand from 72 hours to 144 hours, encouraging longer stays and increased exploration of the region.

Ski Resorts Thrive Amid Growing Demand

Jilin province has embraced the winter season with enthusiasm, opening all 75 of its ski resorts by November 23. Beidahu Ski Resort, a prominent destination in Jilin city, launched its operations early, setting the tone for a bustling season. Lake Songhua Resort, also in Jilin city, has attracted attention for its nighttime skiing offerings, appealing to young professionals and office workers. The resort boasts 10 kilometers of trails with a maximum vertical drop of 605 meters, accommodating up to 3,000 skiers simultaneously.

Pre-opening revenue for the province’s snow season reached 80 million yuan ($11 million), marking a 47% year-over-year increase. This growth underscores the rising popularity of skiing and snowboarding in the region.

Southern China Joins the Winter Tourism Trend

While northern provinces dominate China’s winter tourism market, warmer southern regions like Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Jing’an have embraced indoor ice and snow venues. These facilities cater to young people and families, offering activities such as ice skating and indoor skiing.

Guizhou province, in particular, has emerged as a surprising winter destination. The Yushe Snow Mountain Ski Resort in Liupanshui, the country’s lowest-latitude ski resort, has expanded its facilities to include beginner, intermediate, and advanced tracks. Tourists can explore a variety of activities, from snowboards and snowmobiles to cable car rides. The resort represents an example of how southern regions are diversifying their tourism offerings to compete with established northern destinations.

A Record-Breaking Winter Tourism Season

Dai Bin, director of the China Tourism Academy, reported that over 400 million people participated in snow and ice activities during the 2023–2024 season. With such significant engagement, he believes this winter will set new records in participation and revenue. This optimism highlights the growing cultural and economic importance of winter tourism in China.

Global Implications for Winter Tourism

China’s booming winter tourism has implications beyond its borders. The surge in interest reflects broader global trends, with winter destinations worldwide experiencing increased demand. This trend presents opportunities for international collaboration and innovation in the tourism industry.

Key Impacts:

1. Increased Competition: Destinations worldwide may adopt elements of China’s success, such as combining cultural and seasonal events to attract diverse audiences.
2. Cross-Border Travel: Enhanced policies, like Harbin’s extended visa-free transit, could inspire similar measures elsewhere, facilitating greater international travel.
3. Sustainability Focus: The development of innovative snow and ice experiences emphasizes the importance of eco-friendly tourism practices in seasonal destinations.

For travelers, these developments mean more accessible, diverse, and immersive winter experiences, both within China and internationally.

China’s winter tourism is reaching new heights as regions like Harbin, Jilin, and Guizhou redefine what seasonal travel can offer. With innovative attractions, strategic initiatives, and growing interest among domestic and international tourists, the country is poised to become a leader in the global snow and ice economy. These developments not only boost China’s regional revitalization but also reshape the broader landscape of winter tourism.